Ireland are favourites to complete another title success, despite Farrell temporarily handed the reins to defence coach Simon Easterby.

The president criticised the last administration for its response in North Carolina and leaders in California in the wake of recent wildfires.

The 37-year-old’s fitness had been in doubt ahead of his last-four clash with Alexander Zverev at the Australian Open.

Rail services and flights have been axed, with rare red weather warnings issued for Scotland and Northern Ireland.